SARATOGA SPRINGS -- If the air smells unmistakably of chowder and the streets are overrun with thousands of spoon-wielding enthusiasts Saturday, it's because the much anticipated 15th annual Chowderfest has arrived.

The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau organized the event as part of the 16th annual Winter Weekend. And the weather is likely to cooperate for the most part, though it will be a bit chilly. Highs are expected to be in the upper 20s with cloudy skies.

Saturday, chowder lovers can rove the streets of downtown Saratoga Springs, as well as a few locations outside of the city, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., sampling soups from more than 60 participating establishments. Each 3-ounce chowder sample costs $1, which is paid directly to the establishment.

Visitors can pick up ballots at participating establishments and vote for their favorite batch. Admissible ballots must have the validation stamp or sticker of five participating businesses and can be turned in to the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center or the Saratoga Springs City Center. With a completed ballot and an additional $10, Chowderfest attendees can purchase a commemorative long-sleeve Chowderfest T-shirt.

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In an effort to fill bellies and not make more garbage, attendees can purchase environmentally friendly $10 official Chowderfest Chugs -- reusable mug/lid/spoon sets. Chugs are being sold at the Children's Museum of Saratoga, Crafters Gallery, Franklin Community Center, Gaffney's Restaurant, Impressions of Saratoga, Malika International Boutique, Mountainman Saratoga Outfitters and the Saratoga Hilton gift shop.

Winning chowders will be announced at 6:30 tonight in front of the City Center.

Chowder isn't the only festive aspect of the event. Man's best friend is also invited to the Dog Chow Down -- a friendly doggie chowder competition among local retailers to take place at 1 p.m. at the Saratoga Downtowner Motel. Mayor Scott Johnson and his wife will bring along a furry friend to determine the champion of canine cuisine.

The Police Benevolent Association will be serving free Dunkin' Donuts hot chocolate and coffee across from Caroline Street, next to Putnam Market for the duration of Chowderfest. The PBA will be accepting donations for the Center for the Family, a nonprofit organization that works to strengthen children, families and the community by reducing the effects of abuse, trauma, and family dysfunction through advocacy, education and mental health therapy.

A variety of music can be heard from every street and establishment. For the second year, Radio Disney will be in the Ben & Jerry's parking lot from 1 to 3 p.m. providing music and games for young Chowderfest attendees.